Here are today’s most important updates from the realm of Science and Space.
An international team of astronomers has now detected strange "chirping" signals coming from a region of space no one was expecting, and it leaves new questions over their origin. These chorus waves are short pulses of electromagnetic radiation. They originate from high above Earth's surface and, as a sound wave, are comparable to birds chirping. The radiation burst came from a distance of 165,000 kilometers or 102,526 miles. The discovery has opened new avenues for the understanding of complex behavior of space radiation and its effects on our dear planet.
During a virtual Q&A session with the students, Sunita Williams was asked about the sensation of microgravity. She described it as feeling like swimming or flying, but admitted that the extended time in space has led to physical adjustments. Originally, her mission to the International Space Station (ISS) was expected to last just over a week, but technical problems with the Starliner spacecraft have kept her and fellow astronaut Butch Wilmore in orbit far longer than planned. Williams also emphasized that she doesn’t feel isolated, as her busy schedule aboard the ISS and regular communications with family help her stay grounded.
Astronomers have discovered a new asteroid that has a high probability of hitting Earth in the coming years. The asteroid has been simulated to make a close approach once in eight years. Asteroid 2024 YR4 has a 1-in-83 chance of striking Earth in December of 2032 as it continues to move in its orbit around 27 million miles away from Earth. NASA’s Center of NEO Studies (CNEOS) is tracking the asteroid and has already prepared its projected orbit that brings it in extreme proximity to Earth. Based on current projections, the asteroid is projected to come within 1,06,200 kilometres of the planet.
In a first-of-its-kind geological discovery, scientists have made a stunning discovery happening deep beneath the Earth's surface that could have a big impact on the future. Scientists have discovered that portions of the Earth's crust are peeling away and sinking into the mantle. The geological churning is happening beneath California's Sierra Nevada mountains. The phenomenon has been happening for millions of years quietly beneath our feet and could shed new light on how the continents form. This discovery not only sheds light on the dynamic forces shaping our planet but also provides a rare glimpse into the mechanisms behind continental evolution.
